POLICE have unveiled their latest weapon in the fight against anti-social behaviour . . . lollipops.

Officers hope that handing out lollies to late-night drinkers in the run-up to Christmas and the New Year will have crime licked and will curb drunken clashes at closing time.

Police and nightclub doorman will hand out more than 30,000 lollipops. It is hoped the idea will help police and security staff form a positive relationship with partygoers, pacify drunken behaviour and stop rowdiness.

Police say it will give revellers something to do with their mouths - other than shouting and arguing - when they start giving them out at the Ikon nightclub this weekend.

Inspector Phil Unsworth, of Bolton Central Area police, said: "We were looking at ways to combat crime in the coming weeks and had thought about leaflets, but we believe handing out lollipops will be far more effective.

"It will give people waiting for taxis and making their way home something to do. Bolton police and its partners are committed to making the town centre a safe place for everyone to enjoy, 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

"Through Operation Sherry we are using a whole range of ideas to fight drunken, anti-social behaviour during the night-time economy."

The sweet scheme has been used with great success in other parts of the country, but is a first for Bolton.

The lollipops are made by manufacturer Maxilim Crawford, off Halliwell Road, Bolton.

Justin Doyle, licensing manager for Vimto, said: "Vimto was chosen because it was the first thing that came to mind. But it's a good tradtionally northern drink that is associated with fun and enjoyment."

Derek Loadwick, Ikon nightclub manager, added: "Winston Churchill famously said he would rather jaw jaw than war war', meaning negotiation was preferable to going to war. I would say that I would rather late-night drinkers suck suck than ruck ruck'.

"As far as lollipops being an effective crime-fighting tool, all I can say is let's suck it and see'."

It is also hoped the operation will provide police with an opportunity to remind drinkers and clubbers how they can have a great night and get home safely through following the simple PARTY message: "Pace your drinks to stop becoming too drunk; Always stay with your friends so you can look after each other; Remember to walk away from trouble; Take safe transport home together; and Your safety is your responsibility so drink responsibly and stay safe.

Operation Sherry aims to make sure everyone in Bolton has as safe a Christmas as possible.

There will also be the festive crackdown on drink-driving and police and truancy officers will be out on the streets making sure youngsters are attending school during the run-up to Christmas.